Text information browsing aid apparatus, digital content creation system, digital content distribution system, and storage medium

ABSTRACT

A digital content distribution system that is suitable for providing digital content readable and outputting the digital content in a layout viewable for the user is provided.  
     A content distribution terminal  100  includes a user information registration DB  40  storing user information, and a dictionary information DB  44  storing dictionary information. The content distribution terminal  100  selects dictionary information from the dictionary information registration DB  44  based on the user information in the user information registration DB  40  and the content of digital content associated with the user information, and adds the selected dictionary information to the digital content. Accordingly, the user can obtain digital content including only dictionary information of a relatively high necessity.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a system for distributing digital content and to a storage medium, and more particularly, it relates to a text information browsing aid system, a digital content creation system, a digital content distribution system, and a storage medium which are suitable for providing the user with readable digital content.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Hitherto, apparatuses for aiding browsing of text information by adding translated text or translation of particular words in association with original text information, for example, in English.

[0003] Examples of such apparatuses include a foreign language publication with display of interpretation, disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 62-86385 (hereinafter referred to as a first conventional example), a printing apparatus disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 63-80319 (hereinafter referred to as a second conventional art), a machine translation apparatus disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 5-334350 (hereinafter referred to as a third conventional art), and a machine translation apparatus disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 7-121539 (hereinafter referred to as a fourth conventional art).

[0004] The first conventional art is print paper on which, in addition to a multicolumned foreign language text, interpretations including translation of words and phrases in the foreign language text and symbols indicating the structure of sentences are displayed between the lines. This facilitates interpretation compared with a case where translations, comments, and expositions regarding the foreign language text are all given in the front or back section.

[0005] The second conventional art is a printing apparatus for printing a plurality of articles in pair, which includes determination means for determining the vertical width of a pair of articles being printed; print position prediction means for predicting the print position of the articles by the printer based on the result of the determination by the determination means and the current print position; and new page operation instruction means for instructing a new page operation based on the result of the prediction by the print position prediction means and the maximum print position. This clarifies the association between the pair of articles.

[0006] The third conventional art includes process S2 for obtaining and storing the layout information of an input original text, process S3 for translating the original text into another language, and process S4 for reformatting the translation result in accordance with the stored layout information. Thus, the translated text is automatically output in a format which readily allows confirmation of the correspondence between the translated text and the original text.

[0007] The forth conventional example includes, in addition to a conventional machine translation apparatus, layout structure storage means 5, word specification means 9, character drawing means 10, and font data storage means 11, so that translation is drawn in image data storage means 2 by using the character drawing means 10 and the translation is output between the lines of image data of the original text on display means 3. Alternatively, an arbitrary word is specified by using the word specification means 9, and then translation is drawn in the image data storage means 2 by using the character drawing means 10 and output at a position associated with the word between the lines of image data of the original text on display means 3. Thus, the output result includes figures, tables, and English text which appear in the original document, improving the readability of the result of translation by the machine translation apparatus and facilitating understanding of the translated document.

[0008] Furthermore, an example of a conventional system for providing digital content such as news is a personal electronic newspaper system disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 4-192751 (hereinafter referred to as a fifth conventional example). In addition, an example of technique related to providing digital content is a mail order catalog creation system disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 7-200701 (hereinafter referred to as a sixth conventional example).

[0009] The fifth conventional example is an electronic newspaper system which receives article information transmitted from an article information database storing article information regarding newspaper articles and which then reconstructs the article information for display on the screen. The electronic newspaper system includes an information storage unit for storing interest and knowledge of a plurality of users as a plurality of personal newspaper composing information; a learning unit for learning personal newspaper composing information from the searching history of the user; a screen operation unit for operating the screen in order to obtain personal newspaper composing information and for obtaining article information in accordance with the user based on the personal newspaper composing information from the database and reconstructing the article information for display; and a control unit for controlling the information storage unit, the learning unit, and the screen operation unit.

[0010] This readily allows the user to obtain article information in accordance with personal interest and knowledge, and thus more detailed article information can be provided.

[0011] In the sixth conventional example, a product information file including product information to be shown on catalogs of the products (image or description of the products), a customer information file including personal information regarding particular properties of each customer, and a product condition file in which conditions matching each of the properties of the personal information are set for each of the products, are prepared. A product list extraction unit compares the personal information in the customer information file with the conditions in the product condition file, extracting only those products which match the conditions for each individual customer. A layout processing unit reads and lays out product information for the extracted products. A color electronic printer outputs on paper the product information which has been laid out, and the paper is bound into a booklet by a processing and binding machine, and sent to the customer as a catalog.

[0012] This allows creation of customer-specific catalogs on which only products suitable for each individual customer is listed.

[0013] The first to fourth conventional examples, however, output the same result for the same original text with no regard to the user. Thus, for example, even translated text or translated word which the user is already familiar with and is not of importance, might be added to the original text.

[0014] That is, some users wish, instead of the entire original text being translated, only translations of articles or words necessary in accordance with the user's knowledge level to be added, from the perspective of reducing the amount of the entire text and improving readability.

[0015] This is not limited to addition of translation to original text, and the same applies, for example, to a case where information which aids browsing of text information such as comments and expositions is automatically added to the text information.

[0016] Article information distributed by a digital content distribution system has hitherto typically been composed mostly of text information, such as article information which is distributed in an electronic mail format. This has been the case because a large volume of data cannot be transmitted in an effective time period due to slow network transmission rate, for instance. Thus, in most cases, the article information which is distributed has only needed browsing on the screen, and there has been little need for printing. Even when the article information is printed, it suffices if the text information can be read, and thus there has been little need for considering the layout. However, with the recent improvement in network transmission rate, it will be possible to distribute image information as well as text information in the future. In that case, browsing on the screen has the shortcoming that it does not readily allow understanding of the overall article information. Thus, it is assumed that many users will wish to print the article information which has been distributed and browse the article information on paper.

[0017] In the fifth conventional example, the article information will be actually browsed by using a WWW browser; however, when the article information displayed on the screen with the WWW browser is printed , a piece of article information might not be contained in a sheet of paper and might be printed over a plurality of sheets of paper, considerably degrading the viewability of the print result. In particular, when an image and text information are combined to form a piece of article information, the image and the text information might be printed on separate sheets of paper. This hinders the user's understanding of the association of the text information and the image. As a result, the user may be prevented from understanding the overall article information and even the content of individual article information.

[0018] When the sixth conventional example is applied to a digital content distribution system, the problems previously described are solved to a certain degree by reading and laying out product information of extracted products. However, the output layout of a catalog is determined by the distributor of the catalog, and the catalog is printed in a predetermined output layout presumably viewable for the user. Thus, the catalog is viewable on average, but is not necessarily viewable for every user. That is, some users may feel larger font of text information improves viewability, while other users may feel a smaller area for text information and a larger area for image improves viewability.

[0019] The present invention has been made in view of the unsolved problems pertinent to the conventional art as above, and an object thereof is to provide a text information browsing aid system which is suitable for providing the user with readable text information. Another object thereof is to provide a digital content creation system, a digital content distribution system, and a storage medium which are suitable for providing the user with readable digital content and for outputting the digital content in a viewable layout for the user.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

[0020] In order to achieve the above objects, a text information browsing aid system according to Claim 1 of the present invention is an apparatus for aiding browsing of text information, comprising: user information storage means for storing user information regarding a user; and text information processing means for processing the text information based on the user information in the user information storage means, wherein based on the user information in the user information storage means and the content of the text information associated with the user information, the text information processing means processes text information into a form which presumably most suitably aids browsing of the text information by the user associated with the user information.

[0021] In accordance with the arrangement, based on the user information in the user information storage means and the text information associated with the user information, the text information processing means processes text information into a form which presumably most suitably aids browsing of the text information by the user associated with the user information.

[0022] The arrangement of the text information processing means is arbitrary as long as it processes the text information into a form which presumably most suitably aids browsing of the text information by the user associated with the user information based on the user information. For example, it may add dictionary information in accordance with the user's knowledge level to the text information based on the user information, or it may display subjects in red and verbs in green in articles included in the original text in accordance with the user's knowledge level based on the user information.

[0023] The user information storage means stores the user information by any means and at any time, and it may store the user information in advance. Or, the user information storage means may be enabled by an external input to store the user information when the system is in operation, instead of storing the user information in advance. Hereinafter, the same applies to a digital content creation system according to Claim 3 and a digital content distribution system according to Claim 9.

[0024] The system may be implemented in the form of a single apparatus, or may be implemented as a network system in which a plurality of terminals are communicatively connected. In the latter case, each of the components may belong to any of the plurality of terminals as long as the components are communicatively connected to each other. Hereinafter, the same applies to a digital content creation system according to Claim 3 and a digital content distribution system according to Claim 9.

[0025] Furthermore, a text information browsing aid apparatus according to Claim 2 of the present invention is a text information browsing aid system according to Claim 1, wherein based on the user information in the user information storage means and the content of the text information associated with the user information, the text information processing means associates browsing aid information which aids browsing of the text information with the text information.

[0026] In accordance with the arrangement, based on the user information in the user information storage means and the content of the text information associated with the user information, the text information processing means associates browsing aid information which aids browsing of the text information with the text information.

[0027] The browsing aid information is information for aiding browsing of text information, and includes, for example, information regarding translation, comments, and expositions for text included in the text information.

[0028] As long as the browsing aid information is associated with the text information, the association may be made, for example, by adding the browsing aid information to the text information or adding reference information which allows the browsing aid information to be obtained (e.g., URL (Uniform Resource Locator)) to the text information.

[0029] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above objects, a digital content creation system according to Claim 3 of the present invention is a system for creating digital content, comprising: user information storage means for storing user information regarding a user; dictionary information storage means storing dictionary information; dictionary information selection means for selecting the dictionary information from the dictionary information storage means based on the user information in the user information storage means and the content of digital content associated with the user information; and dictionary information association means for associating the dictionary information selected by the dictionary information selection means with the digital content.

[0030] In accordance with the arrangement, dictionary information selection means selects dictionary information from the dictionary information storage means based on the user information in the user information storage means and the content of digital content associated with the user information, and the dictionary information association means associates the selected dictionary information with the digital content.

[0031] As long as the dictionary information is associated with the digital content, the association may be made, for example, by adding the dictionary information to the digital content or by adding reference information which allows the dictionary information to be obtained (e.g., URL) to the digital content. Hereinafter, the same applies to a digital content distribution system according to Claim 9.

[0032] The dictionary information association means may directly add the dictionary information selected by the dictionary information selection means to the digital content. From the perspective of improving readability, however, it is preferable that character decoration be added to emphasize the dictionary information selected by the dictionary information selection means. Hereinafter, the same applies to a digital content distribution system according to Claim 9.

[0033] The digital content with which the dictionary information has been associated may be distributed to the user, or may be stored in storage means for access and retrieval from a client terminal by the user.

[0034] Furthermore, a digital content creation system according to Claim 4 of the present invention is a digital content creation system according to Claim 3, wherein the user information comprises interest information regarding the interest or preference of the user, and the dictionary information selection means selects dictionary information which matches the interest or preference of the user from the dictionary information storage means based on the interest information in the user information storage means.

[0035] In accordance with the arrangement, the dictionary information selection means selects dictionary information that matches the interest or preference of the user from the dictionary information storage means based on the interest information in the user information storage means.

[0036] Furthermore, a digital content creation system according to Claim 5 of the present invention is a digital content creation system according to one of Claims 3 and 4, wherein the dictionary information selection means selects dictionary information related to words or sentences included in the digital content from the dictionary information storage means based on the user information in the user information storage means.

[0037] In accordance with the arrangement, the dictionary information selection means selects dictionary information related to words or sentences included in the digital content from the dictionary information storage means based on the user information in the user information storage means.

[0038] Furthermore, a digital content creation system according to Claim 6 of the present invention is a digital content creation system according to one of Claims 3 to 5, comprising content translation means for translating text information included in the digital content, wherein when a plurality of translations exists as candidates for the same word in the result of translation by the content translation means, the dictionary information selection means determines a presumably most suitable translation from the plurality of translations based on the content of the digital content, and selects translations as the dictionary information from the translations which have been determined, based on the user information in the user information storage means.

[0039] In accordance with the arrangement, the content translation means translates the digital content, and when a plurality of translations exists as candidates for the same word in the result of translation, the dictionary information selection means determines a presumably most suitable translation from the plurality of translations based on the content of the digital content, and selects translations as dictionary information from the translations which have been determined, based on the user information in the user information storage means.

[0040] Furthermore, a digital content creation system according to Claim 7 of the present invention is a digital content creation system according to one of Claims 3 to 6, comprising content layout means for laying out digital content with the dictionary information associated therewith in an output layout which is determined based on the user information in the user information storage means.

[0041] In accordance with the arrangement, the content layout means lays out digital content with the dictionary information associated therewith in an output layout which is determined based on the user information in the user information storage means.

[0042] The output layout includes a display layout for displaying browsing information on the screen, and a print layout for printing the browsing information on paper. Hereinafter, the same applies to a digital content distribution system according to Claim 9.

[0043] Furthermore, a digital content creation system according to Claim 8 of the present invention is a digital content creation system according to one of Claims 3 to 7, wherein the user information comprises association limit information regarding an upper limit number or a lower limit number for dictionary information to be associated with the digital content, and the dictionary information association means associates the dictionary information selected by the dictionary information selection means with the digital content based on the association limit information in the user information storage means.

[0044] In accordance with the arrangement, the dictionary information association means associates the selected dictionary information with the digital content based on the association limit information in the user information storage means.

[0045] The association limit information is not limited to setting of an upper limit number or a lower limit number in actual value, and the upper limit number or the lower limit number may be set by ratio, for example, the upper limit ratio to the text information included in the digital content.

[0046] Furthermore, a digital content distribution system according to Claim 9 of the present invention is a system for distributing digital content, comprising: user information storage means for storing user information regarding a user; dictionary information storage means storing dictionary information; dictionary information selection means for selecting the dictionary information from the dictionary information storage means based on the user information in the user information storage means and the content of digital content associated with the user information; dictionary information association means for associating the dictionary information selected by the dictionary information selection means with the digital content; content layout means for laying out the digital content with the dictionary information associated therewith in an output layout which is determined based on the user information in the user information storage means; and content distribution means for distributing the digital content laid out by the content layout means to the user.

[0047] In accordance with the arrangement, the dictionary information selection means selects dictionary information from the dictionary information storage means based on the user information in the user information storage means and the content of digital content associated with the user information, and the dictionary information association means associates the selected dictionary information with the digital content. The content layout means lays out the digital content with the dictionary information associated therewith in an output layout which is determined based on the user information in the user information storage means, and the content distribution means distributes to the user the digital content which has been laid out.

[0048] Furthermore, a digital content creation system according to Claim 10 of the present invention is a digital content distribution system according to Claim 9, comprising: content storage means storing a plurality of digital contents; and content selection means for selecting the digital content from the content storage means based on the user information in the user information storage means, wherein the dictionary information selection means selects the dictionary information from the dictionary information storage means based on the user information in the user information storage means and the content of the digital content selected by the content selection means, and the dictionary information association means associates the dictionary information selected by the dictionary information selection means with the digital content selected by the content selection means.

[0049] In accordance with the arrangement, the content selection means selects digital content from the content storage means based on the user information in the user information storage means, and the dictionary information selection means selects dictionary information from the dictionary information storage means based on the user information in the user information storage means and the content of the digital content selected by the content selection means. The dictionary information association means associates the selected dictionary information with the selected digital content.

[0050] Furthermore, in order to achieve the above objects, a storage medium storing a content distribution program according to Claim 11 of the present invention is a computer-readable storage medium storing a content distribution program for distributing digital content, the storage medium storing a program for executing a process by a computer comprising user information storage means for storing user information regarding a user; and dictionary information storage means storing dictionary information; the process being implemented by dictionary information selection means for selecting the dictionary information from the dictionary information storage means based on the user information in the user information storage means and the content of digital content associated with the user information; dictionary information association means for associating the dictionary information selected by the dictionary information selection means with the digital content; content layout means for laying out the digital content with the dictionary information associated therewith in an output layout which is determined based on the user information in the user information storage means; and content distribution means for distributing the digital content laid out by the content layout means to the user.

[0051] In accordance with the arrangement, a content distribution program stored on a storage medium is read by a computer, and the computer executes a process according to the program which has been read, thereby enabling an operation equivalent to the digital content distribution system according to Claim 9.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0052]FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a network system to which the present invention is applied.

[0053]FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the construction of a content distribution terminal 100.

[0054]FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the data structure of a user profile table 300.

[0055]FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the data structures of a layout definition file and a layout No. association table 330.

[0056]FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the data structures of digital content and a category No. association table 340.

[0057]FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the data structure of a privilege information registration DB 44.

[0058]FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a user registration process.

[0059]FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a content distribution process.

[0060]FIG. 9 is an illustration showing a user ID, etc. input screen.

[0061]FIG. 10 is an illustration showing a category, etc. specification screen.

[0062]FIG. 11 is an illustration showing an output layout, etc. specification screen.

[0063]FIG. 12 is an illustration of a registration content confirmation screen.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0064] An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIGS. 1 to 12 are diagrams showing a text information browsing aid system, a digital content creation system, a digital content distribution system, and a storage medium according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] In this embodiment, a text information browsing aid system, a digital content creation system, a digital content distribution system, and a storage medium according to the present invention are applied to a case where a content distribution terminal 100 distributes digital content such as news to a user terminal 200, as shown in FIG. 1.

[0066] First, the configuration of a network system to which the present invention is applied will be described with reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the network system to which the present invention is applied.

[0067] As shown in FIG. 1, a plurality of content providing terminals S₁ to S_(n) which provide digital content, a content distribution terminal 100 which collects, stores, and distributes the digital content provided by the content providing terminals S₁ to S_(n), and a user terminal 200 for the user are connected to the Internet 199. Although only one user terminal 200 is shown in order to facilitate understanding of the present invention, a plurality of user terminals are actually connected to the Internet 199.

[0068] The content providing terminals S₁ to S_(n) are constructed so as to have the same functionality as an ordinary computer in which a CPU, a ROM, a RAM and an I/F are connected via a bus. When digital content is created, the content providing terminals S₁ to S_(n) add to the digital content a category No. for identifying the category of the digital content, and transmit it to the content distribution terminal 100. The category No. will be described later in more detail.

[0069] The user terminal 200 is constructed so as to have the same functionality as an ordinary personal computer in which a CPU, ROM, a RAM and an I/F are connected via a bus. The user terminal 200 has a WWW browser, and it accesses the content distribution terminal 100 using the WWW browser.

[0070] Next, the construction of the content distribution terminal 100 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 2. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the construction of the content distribution terminal 100.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 2, the content distribution terminal 100 includes a CPU 30 which controls operations and the overall system according to a control program, a ROM 32 in a specific area of which the control program for the CPU 30 are stored in advance, a RAM 34 which stores data read from the ROM 32 and operation results required in the course of operations by the CPU 30, and an I/F which intermediates data input and output from and to external apparatuses, being connected to each other so as to allow exchange of data via a bus 39 which is a signal line for transferring data.

[0072] A user information registration database (hereinafter abbreviated simply as DB) 40 in which user information is registered, a content registration DB 42 in which the digital content provided by the content providing terminals S₁ to S_(n) are collected and stored, a dictionary information registration DB 44 in which dictionary information such as an English-Japanese dictionary is registered, and a signal line for connection with the Internet 199 are connected to the I/F 38 as the external apparatuses.

[0073] The user information registration database 40 stores a user profile table 300 on which user information is registered, as shown in FIG. 3. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the data structure of the user profile table 300.

[0074] As shown in FIG. 3, the user profile table 300 allows registration of a single record or a plurality of records for each user. Each record includes a field 302 in which a user ID for identifying a user is registered, a field 304 in which a destination address of digital content is registered, a field 306 in which a category No. is registered, a field 308 in which a keyword is registered, a field 310 in which a distribution date is registered, a field 312 in which a distribution time is registered, a field 314 in which a layout No. is registered, a field 316 in which a maximum number of pages is registered, a field 318 in which a font size is registered, a field 319 in which fields of the user's interest are registered, a field 320 in which the linguistic level of the user is registered, a field 322 in which the expertise level of the user is registered, and a field 324 in which languages for which the user desires translation are registered.

[0075] In the field 308, when digital content including a keyword specified by the user is to be selected for distribution, the keyword is registered. The keyword is, for example, one which presumably appears frequently in articles of a category of the user's interest. In the example shown in FIG. 3, in the first to the third rows of the field 308, “processor”, “OS”, and “application” are registered, respectively.

[0076] In the field 310, a distribution date on which the user desires the digital content to be distributed is registered. The distribution date is specified as, for example, “every day” if the digital content is desired to be distributed every day, “weekdays” if the digital content is desired to be distributed only on weekdays, and “weekend” if the digital content is desired to be distributed only on weekend. In the example shown in FIG. 3, in the first to the third rows of the field 310, “every day”, “weekdays”, and “weekend” are registered, respectively.

[0077] In the field 312, a distribution time of the specified distribution date on which the user desires the digital content to be distributed is registered. The distribution date is specified, for example, as one of 0 o'clock to 23 o'clock in the 24-hour representation. In the example shown in FIG. 3, in the first to the third rows of the field 312, “5 o'clock”, “11 o'clock”, and “9 o'clock” are registered, respectively.

[0078] In the field 314, a layout No. for specifying the output layout of digital content is registered. As the layout No., for example, a layout No. identifying an output layout desired by the user is specified. In the example shown in FIG. 3, in the first to the third rows of the field 314, “layout No. 2”, “layout No. 5”, and “layout No. 6” are respectively registered. The layout No. will be described later in more detail.

[0079] In the field 316, a maximum number of pages of a display or a print of digital content is registered. As the maximum number of pages, for example, an upper limit of the number of pages may be specified, or absence of the upper limit may be specified by an indication of “u”. In the example shown in FIG. 3, in the first to the third rows of the field 316, “two pages”, “two pages”, and “u” are registered, respectively.

[0080] In the field 318, a font size with which digital content is displayed or printed is registered. In the example shown in FIG. 3, in the first to the third rows of the field 318, “small”, “small”, and “regular” are registered, respectively.

[0081] In the field 319, fields of the user's interest are registered. In the example shown in FIG. 3, in the first to the third rows of the field 319, “computer and sports”, “securities”, and “medicine” are registered, respectively. As will be described later in more detail, the fields of interest registered in the field 319 are used as an index for selecting particular dictionary information from the dictionary information registration DB 44, and the fields may overlap with or differ from the category registered in the field 306. For example, a user interested in the field of computer may wish to receive distribution of digital content in the field of sports as well as in the field of computer. In that case, category Nos. associated with the field of sports and the field of computer are registered in the field 306, and the field of computer is registered in the field 319.

[0082] In the field 320, the linguistic level of the user is registered. For example, the user is given a test based on criteria employed in a predetermined language proficiency certification test, and the test score of the user is set as the linguistic level. In the example shown in FIG. 3, in the first to the third rows of the field 320, “720”, “420”, and “700” are registered, respectively. In this case, a greater value indicates a higher linguistic level.

[0083] In the field 322, the expertise level of the user is registered. For example, the user is given a test based on criteria employed in a predetermined expertise certification test and a qualification test, and the test score of the user is set as the expertise level. In the example shown in FIG. 3, in the second row of the field 322, “securities: rank A” is registered. This indicates an expertise level of A rank in the field of securities, the expertise level being higher in the alphabetically descending order.

[0084] In the field 324, languages for which the user desires translation are registered. In the example shown in FIG. 3, in the first to the third rows of the field 324, “English”, “English and French”, and “Chinese” are registered, respectively.

[0085] The user information registration database DB 40 also stores a plurality of layout definition files form01 to form06 defining output layouts of digital content, and a layout No. association table 330 showing an association between the layout definition files form01 to form06 and layout Nos as shown in FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the data structures of the layout definition files and the layout No. association table 330.

[0086] As shown in FIG. 4(a), the layout definition files form0l to form06 define, for example, the size and location in the print area on paper of a text information frame for storing text information and images included in digital content, the font size, type, and color of the text information, character spacing and line pitch, and the number, quality, size, and ratio of the images, and are described, for example, in XML (Extensible Markup Language).

[0087] In the layout No. association table 330, one record is registered for each layout No., as shown in FIG. 4(b). Each record includes a field 332 in which a layout No. is registered, and a field 334 in which the file name of layout definition file is registered. In the example shown in FIG. 4(b), in the record on the first row, “1” is registered as the layout definition No. and “form0l” is registered as the name of layout definition file, respectively.

[0088] The content registration DB 42 stores digital content provided by the content providing terminals S₁ to S_(n), and a category association table 340 showing an association between main categories and subcategories and category Nos. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the data structures of the digital content and the category No. association table 340.

[0089] As shown in FIG. 5(a), a category No. is assigned to the digital content provided by the content providing terminals S₁ to S_(n), so that the content distribution terminal 100 classifies the digital content by category based on the category No. and registers the digital content in the content registration DB 42. The digital content is registered with, in addition to the category No., a main category and a subcategory assigned thereto with reference to the category No. association table 340.

[0090] In the category No. association table 340, one record is registered for each main category and subcategory, as shown in FIG. 5(b). Each record includes a field 342 in which a category No. is registered, a field 344 in which a main category is registered, and a field 346 in which a subcategory is registered. In the example shown in FIG. 5(b), in the record on the first row, “1102” is registered as the category No., “world news” is registered as the main category, and “America” is registered as the subcategory, respectively.

[0091] The dictionary information registration DB 44 stores an English-Japanese dictionary registration table 360 in which an English-Japanese dictionary is registered. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the data structure of the dictionary information registration DB 44.

[0092] In the English-Japanese dictionary registration table 360, one record is registered for each English word, as shown in FIG. 6. Each record includes a field 362 in which an English word is registered, a field 364 in which translations of the English word in the field 362 are registered, and a field 366 in which a linguistic level presumably required for translation of the English word in the field 362 is registered, and a field 368 in which an expertise level presumably required for understanding of the English word in the field 362 is registered. In the example shown in FIG. 6, in the record on the first row, “company” is registered as the English word, “kaisha, shousha, and shoukai” are registered as the translations, “400” is registered as the linguistic level, and “general” is registered as the expertise level, respectively.

[0093] Although not shown, the dictionary information registration DB 44 additionally includes a technical term dictionary registration table in which a technical term dictionary of a technical field such as computer is registered, an exposition dictionary registration table in which an exposition dictionary is registered, a synonym dictionary registration table in which a synonym dictionary is registered, an antonym dictionary registration table in which an antonym dictionary is registered, and a related term dictionary registration table in which a related term dictionary is registered. In the related term dictionary, for example, news concerning “I Love You virus” is registered as dictionary information for the word “virus”.

[0094] Next, the construction of the CPU 30 and processes executed by the CPU 30 will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8.

[0095] The CPU comprises, for example, a microprocessing unit MPU, and it activates a predetermined program stored in a predetermined area of the ROM 32 and executes the user registration process and the content distribution process shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. 7 and 8, respectively, according to the program by time division.

[0096] First, the user registration process will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 7. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the user registration process.

[0097] In the user registration process, a user which has accessed is requested to input necessary user information including a user ID, and the user information which has been input is registered in the user profile table 300. When the user registration process is executed by the CPU 30, first, the process enters step S100, as shown in FIG. 7. The inputs in subsequent steps will be made by interactive communications with the user.

[0098] In step S100, a user ID is input. The process proceeds to step S102, in which a main category and a subcategory are input. The process proceeds to step S104, in which a destination address is input. The process proceeds to step S106, in which a distribution date and a distribution time are input. The process then proceeds to step S108.

[0099] In step S108, a layout No. is input. The process proceeds to step S110, in which a maximum number of pages is input. The process proceeds to step S112, in which a font size is input. The process then proceeds to step S113.

[0100] In step S113, fields of interest are input. The process proceeds to step S114, in which languages desired to be translated are input. The process proceeds to step S116, in which the linguistic level of the user is tested based on criteria employed in a predetermined language proficiency certification test. The process proceeds to step S118, in which the linguistic level of the user is calculated based on the score of the test. The process then proceeds to step S120.

[0101] In step S120, the expertise level of the user is tested based on criteria employed in a predetermined expertise certification test or a qualification test. The process proceeds to step S122, in which the expertise level of the user is calculated based on the score of the test. The process then proceeds to step S124.

[0102] In step S124, the user information which has been input in steps S100 to S114, S118, and S122 is registered in the user profile table 300. The process then exits the series of processes, returning to the previous process.

[0103] Next, the content distribution process will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 8. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the content distribution process.

[0104] In the content distribution process, digital content is distributed to the user terminal 200 with reference to the user profile table 300. When the content distribution process is executed by the CPU 30, initially, as shown in FIG. 8, the process enters step S200. The processes in the subsequent steps deal with one record in the user profile table 300. The processes in the subsequent steps are actually executed for the number of the records registered in the user profile table 300.

[0105] In step S200, the distribution date and the distribution time are read from the user profile table 300. The process proceeds to step S202, in which it is determined whether the date and time when the digital content is to be distributed have been reached based on the distribution date and the distribution time which have been read. If it is determined that the date and time when the digital content is to be distributed have been reached (Yes), the process proceeds to step S204, whereas otherwise (No), the process proceeds to step S200.

[0106] In step S204, the category No. is read from the user profile table 300. The process proceeds to step S206, in which the digital content in the content registration DB 42 is searched based on the category No. which has been read, whereby digital content with a matching category No. assigned thereto is retrieved. The process proceeds to step S207, in which the languages desired to be translated are read from the user profile table 300. The process then proceeds to step S208.

[0107] In step S208, of the text information included in the digital content which has been retrieved, read-out words and sentences in the languages desired to be translated are translated into a predetermined language (e.g., Japanese) by using the dictionary information in the dictionary information registration DB 44. The process proceeds to step S210, in which it is determined whether a plurality of candidate translations exists for the same word. If it is determined that a plurality of candidate translations exists (Yes), the process proceeds to step S212.

[0108] In step S212, based on the content of the text information included in the digital content which has been retrieved (e.g., context and translations preceding and following the word for which a plurality of candidate translations exists), a most suitable translation is determined from the plurality of translations. The process proceeds to step S214, in which the fields of interest, the linguistic level, and the expertise level are read from the user profile table 300. The process then proceeds to step S216.

[0109] In step S216, based on the fields of interest, the linguistic level, and the expertise level which have been read, translations are selected from the results of the translation in step S208 or the translations determined in step S212. More specifically, translations which match the read-out fields of interest are selected from the results of the translation in step S208 or the translations determined in step S212. Then, the linguistic levels and the expertise levels associated with the selected translation are read from the dictionary information registration DB 44, and the linguistic levels and the expertise levels associated with the translations are respectively compared with the linguistic level and the expertise level of the user. If it is found as a result of the comparison that the linguistic level associated with a translation is higher than the linguistic level of the user or the expertise level associated with the translation is higher than the expertise level of the user, the translation is selected as dictionary information to be added to the digital content.

[0110] The process then proceeds to step S218, in which dictionary information is read from the dictionary information registration DB 44 based on the fields of interest, the linguistic level, and the expertise level which have been read, and the content of the text information included in the digital content which has been retrieved. More specifically, first, in step S206, words are extracted from the text information included in the digital content retrieved in step S206, and words which match the fields of interest which has been read are selected from the extracted words. Then, the linguistic levels and the expertise levels associated with the selected words are read from the dictionary information registration DB 44, and the linguistic levels and the expertise levels associated with the words are respectively compared with the linguistic level and the expertise level of the user. If it is found as a result of the comparison that the linguistic level associated with a word is higher than the linguistic level of the user or the expertise level associated with the word is higher than the expertise level of the user, dictionary information associated with the word is read from the dictionary information registration DB 44.

[0111] Then, the process proceeds to step S220, in which the dictionary information selected in steps S216 and S218 is added to the digital content. The process proceeds to step S222, in which the layout No. is read from the user profile table 300. The process proceeds to step S224, in which the layout definition file associated with the layout No. which has been read is read from the user information registration DB 40 with reference to the layout No. association table 330. The process proceeds to step S226, in which an automatic layout process is executed to lay out the digital content in an output layout determined based on the layout definition file which has been read. The process then proceeds to step S228.

[0112] In step S228, the destination address is read from the user profile table 300. The process proceeds to step S230, in which the digital content which has been created is distributed to the destination address which has been read. The process then exits the series of processes and returns to the previous process.

[0113] If it is determined in step S210 that a plurality of candidate translations does not exist for the same word (No), the process proceeds to step S214.

[0114] Next, the operation of the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 to 12.

[0115] First, registration of information required for distribution of digital content will be described.

[0116] When the user desires distribution of digital content, the user accesses the content distribution terminal 100 using a WWW browser on the user terminal 200, and inputs a user registration request.

[0117] When the user registration request is input, the user terminal 200 receives screen constitution data which constitutes a user ID, etc. input screen for inputting a user ID, etc. by a communication with the content distribution terminal 100, and displays a screen as shown in FIG. 9 based on the screen constitution data. FIG. 9 is an illustration showing the user ID, etc. input screen.

[0118] As shown in FIG. 9, the user inputs a user ID, a password, and a destination address by inputting values, text strings in text boxes 530 to 532, respectively. When the input of the user ID, etc. is complete, the user clicks an “OK” button 526.

[0119] When the input of the user ID, etc. is complete, the user terminal 200 transmits the user ID, etc. to the content distribution terminal 100. Then, a screen as shown in FIG. 10 is displayed by a communication with the content distribution terminal 100. FIG. 10 is an illustration showing a category, etc. specification screen.

[0120] As shown in FIG. 10, the user is allowed to specify up to six categories of digital content for which the user desires distribution. The categories of digital content are specified, for example, by selecting desired categories in combo boxes 520 to 525 in which a list of categories is registered.

[0121] The user also inputs a distribution date and a distribution time on which the user desires distribution. The distribution date is input, for example, by selecting one of option buttons 540 to 543 for “every day”, “every week”, “weekdays (from Monday through Friday)”, and “on weekend (Saturday and Sunday)”. The distribution time is input, for example, by selecting a desired distribution time in combo boxes 550 and 551 in which a list of distribution times is registered. When the inputs are complete, the user clicks an “OK” button 552.

[0122] When the specification of the categories is complete, the user terminal 200 transmits the specification of the categories to the content distribution terminal 100. Then, a screen as shown in FIG. 11 is displayed by a communication with the content distribution terminal 100. FIG. 11 is an illustration showing an output layout, etc. specification screen.

[0123] As shown in FIG. 11, the user specifies the layout No., the maximum number of pages, and the font size. The layout No. is specified, for example, by selecting one of the six option buttons 560 to 565 respectively corresponding to sample images laid out according to each of the output layouts. The maximum number of pages is specified, for example, by selecting one of the option buttons 570 to 574 for “two pages”, “four pages”, “six pages”, “eight pages”, and “no upper limit”. The font size is specified, for example, by selecting one of the option buttons 580 to 582 for “small”, “regular”, and “large”. When the specifications are complete, the user clicks an “OK” button 583.

[0124] When the specifications of the output layout, etc. is complete, the user terminal 200 transmits the specifications of the output layout, etc. to the content distribution terminal 100. Then, although not shown, a user knowledge information input screen for inputting the user's knowledge information is displayed by a communication with the content distribution terminal 100.

[0125] The user inputs fields of interest and languages desired to be translated in the same manner as shown in FIGS. 9 to 11, and takes predetermined tests with respect to the linguistic level and the expertise level. The linguistic level and the expertise level of the user are calculated by the predetermined tests being taken by the user.

[0126] When the input of the user's knowledge information is complete, the user terminal 200 transmits the knowledge information to the content distribution terminal 100. Then, a screen as shown in FIG. 12 is displayed by a communication with the content distribution terminal 100. FIG. 12 is an illustration showing a registration information confirmation screen.

[0127] In the example shown in FIG. 12, the specification of the categories is displayed as “sports; golf; Maruyama”, and “America; American top news; Bush”. If the registration information is correct, the user clicks a “distribution start” button 590.

[0128] When the confirmation of the registration information is complete, the user terminal 200 transmits a distribution start request to the content distribution terminal 100.

[0129] Upon receiving the distribution start request, in step S114, the content distribution terminal 100 registers the specification of content, the user ID, etc., and the specifications of output layout, etc. which have been received in the user profile table 300. The specification of content is registered in terms of a content No. with reference to the content No. association table 340, and the specification of output layout is registered in terms of a layout No. with reference to the layout No. association table 330.

[0130] Next, distribution of digital content with reference to the user profile table 300 will be described.

[0131] When the date and time for distribution of digital content with reference to the user profile table 300 have been reached, in steps S204 to S212, the content distribution terminal 100 reads the category No. from the user profile table 300, performs a search based on the category No. which has been read, and retrieves the digital content to which a category No. matching the category No. is assigned. Then, the languages desired to be translated are read from the user profile table 300, and words and sentences in the languages to be translated in the text information included in the digital content which has been retrieved are translated, for example, into Japanese. If a plurality of candidate translations exists for the same word in the translation result, a presumably most suitable translation is determined from the plurality of candidate translations based on the content of the text information included in the digital content which has been retrieved.

[0132] Then, in steps S214 and S216, the fields of interest, the linguistic level, and the expertise level are read from the user profile table 300, and translations are selected from the translation result based on the fields of interest, the linguistic level, and the expertise level which have been read. With regard to the selection of translations, first, translations which match the read-out fields of interest are selected, and the linguistic levels and the expertise levels associated with the selected translations are read from the dictionary information registration DB 44. Then, if the linguistic level associated with a translation is higher than the linguistic level of the user or the expertise level associated with the translation is higher than the expertise level of the user, the translation is selected as dictionary information.

[0133] Then, in step S218, the dictionary information is read from the dictionary information registration DB 44 based on the fields of interest, the linguistic level, and the expertise level which have been read and the content of the text information included in the digital content which has been retrieved. With regard to the reading of the dictionary information, first, words are extracted from the text information included in the digital content, words which match the fields of interest are selected from the extracted words, and the linguistic levels and the expertise levels associated with the selected words are read from the dictionary information registration DB 44. If the linguistic level associated with a word is higher than the linguistic level of the user or the expertise level associated with the word is higher than the expertise level of the user, dictionary information associated with the word is read from the dictionary information registration DB 44.

[0134] Then, in steps S220 to S226, the selected dictionary information is added to the digital content, the layout No. is read from the user profile table 300, and the layout definition file corresponding to the layout No. which has been read is read from the user information registration DB 40 with reference to the layout No. association table 330. Then, the digital content is laid out according to the output layout determined based on the layout definition file which has been read.

[0135] Then, in steps S228 and S230, the destination address is read from the user profile table 300, and the digital content which has been created is distributed to the destination address which has been read.

[0136] As described above, in this embodiment, the content distribution terminal 100 includes the user information registration DB 40 storing user information and the dictionary information registration DB 44 storing dictionary information, so that dictionary information is selected from the dictionary information registration DB 44 based on the user information in the user information registration DB 40 and the content of digital content associated with the user information and the selected dictionary information is added to the digital content.

[0137] Thus, dictionary information within the knowledge level of the user is not added, while dictionary information beyond the knowledge level of the user is added to the digital content, so that the user can obtain digital content including only dictionary information of a relatively high necessity. Accordingly, the user is provided with more readable digital content compared with before.

[0138] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the content distribution terminal 100 selects dictionary information which matches the user's interest or preference from the dictionary information registration DB 44 based on the fields of interest in the user information registration DB 40.

[0139] Thus, dictionary information which does not match the user's interest or preference is not added; while dictionary information which matches the user's interest or preference is added to the digital content, so that the user can obtain digital content including only dictionary information of a relatively high necessity. Accordingly, the user is provided with even more readable digital content.

[0140] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the content distribution terminal 100 selects dictionary information associated with words or sentences included in the digital content from the dictionary information registration DB 44 based on the user information in the user information registration DB 40.

[0141] Thus, dictionary information associated with the words or sentences included in the digital content are added to the digital content, so that the user can obtain digital contents including relatively useful dictionary information. Accordingly, the user is provided with even more readable digital content.

[0142] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the content distribution terminal 100 translates text information included in the digital content. If a plurality of candidate translations exits for the same word in the translation result, the content distribution terminal 100 determines a presumably most suitable translation from the plurality of candidate translations based on the content of the digital content, and, based on the user information in the user information registration DB 40, selects translations as dictionary information from the translations which have been determined.

[0143] Thus, the user can obtain digital content including relatively accurate translations. Accordingly, the user is provided with even more readable digital content.

[0144] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the content distribution terminal 100 determines the output layout of the digital content based on the user information in the user information registration DB 40 so as to perform the layout.

[0145] Thus, the user information is taken into consideration concerning the output layout, so that the digital content is output in an output layout relatively desirable for the user. Accordingly, the digital content is output in an output layout more viewable for the user compared with before.

[0146] In particular, in this embodiment, a print layout is determined, and, for example, in the case of printing on paper, the printing will be performed on a page-by-page basis; thus, by using a layout in which the content is closed on a page-by-page basis, it is possible to view the pages on the screen one by one and to print only desired pages. Furthermore, with a layout in which date is inserted on each page, when the digital content is stored as a file, the user enjoys the convenience of knowing when the article was made from the date.

[0147] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the content distribution terminal 100 includes the content registration DB 42 storing a plurality of digital contents, reads the content No. and the associated layout definition file from the user information registration DB 40, selects digital content from the content registration DB 42 based on the content No. which has been read, and lays out the selected digital content according to an output layout determined based on the layout definition file which has been read.

[0148] Thus, only digital content relatively desirable for the user is laid out, reducing difficulty in viewing due to undesired and unnecessary digital content being included together. Accordingly, the digital content is output in an output layout viewable for the user.

[0149] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the content distribution terminal 100 distributes digital content which has been created based on the distribution date and distribution time corresponding to the layout definition file used for layout of the digital content.

[0150] Thus, the digital content is distributed at a time relatively desirable for the user. Accordingly, the user is provided with a more satisfactory distribution service compared with before.

[0151] In the embodiment described above, the dictionary information corresponds to browsing aid information in Claim 2, the user information registration DB 40 corresponds to user information storage means in Claims 1 to 10, the content registration DB 42 corresponds to content storage means in Claim 10, and the dictionary information registration DB 44 corresponds to dictionary information storage means in Claim 3, 4, 5, 9, or 10. Steps S204 and S206 correspond to content selection means in Claim 10, step S208 corresponds to content translation means in Claim 6, and steps S210 to S220 correspond to text information processing means in Claim 1 or 2. Steps S210 to S218 correspond to dictionary information selection means in Claims 3 to 10, step S220 corresponds to dictionary information association means in Claim 3, 8, 9, or 10, step S226 corresponds to content layout means in Claim 7 or 9, and steps S228 and S230 correspond to content distribution means in Claim 9.

[0152] Although the embodiment has been described without a specific description regarding updating of the linguistic level and the expertise level of the user, for example, a predetermined test may be performed at a predetermined interval so that the linguistic level and the expertise level of the user are updated. Accordingly, dictionary information in accordance with the user's current knowledge level is added to the digital content.

[0153] Furthermore, although the embodiment has been described without a specific description regarding the user's age, for example, different dictionary information may be added for the same word depending on the user's age. More specifically, for the same word, dictionary information including a simple explanation of content is added for a ten-year-old child, while dictionary information including only the essence is added for a thirty-year-old adult.

[0154] Furthermore, although the embodiment has been described without a specific description regarding the gender of the user, for example, dictionary information may be added in accordance with the gender of the user.

[0155] More specifically, if a word is known to most women but rarely known to men, dictionary information is omitted for women and added for men.

[0156] Furthermore, although the embodiment has been described without a specific description regarding the location of the user, dictionary information may be added in accordance with the location of the user. More specifically, it is very likely that the user is familiar with words closely related to the location of the user, and thus dictionary information for such words is omitted regardless of the linguistic level, etc. of the user. Without limitation to location, the classification may be made on the basis of school or company, for instance.

[0157] Furthermore, although the embodiment has been described without a specific description regarding the company the user belongs to, for example, dictionary information may be added in accordance with the company the user belongs to. More specifically, priority is given to words and sentences presumably related to the company the user belongs to in adding dictionary information. Without limitation to company, the classification may be made on the basis of school.

[0158] Furthermore, although the embodiment has been described without a specific description regarding the number of times dictionary information is added, for example, the number of times the same dictionary information is added may be counted, so that the user is assumed to have learnt the dictionary information when the count value has exceeded a predetermined value, and the dictionary information is not added thereafter. In addition, the font size, the color, and the layout may be changed in accordance with the number of times of addition.

[0159] Furthermore, although the embodiment has been described without a specific description regarding the case that the user also uses an electronic dictionary or the Web, for example, it is very likely that the user desires to learn those words frequently input as search keywords in the electronic dictionary or on the Web, and thus the words may be forcibly added as dictionary information.

[0160] Furthermore, although the embodiment has been described without a specific description regarding setting an upper limit and a lower limit for the number of additions of dictionary information, for example, if a large number of dictionary information has been selected, the predetermined number of dictionary information to eventually be added is determined in the following manner: (1) how much dictionary information is added per line on average; (2) what percent of dictionary information is added to text information included in digital content (ratio to a predetermined range such as the entire text, a paragraph, or a line); (3) simply how many dictionary information is added (in the entire text, a paragraph, or a line).

[0161] First, a number is specified in the user profile table 300, so that dictionary information is added in accordance with the specified number in the user profile table 300. Second, of dictionary information to be added, the predetermined number of dictionary information is added in the order of importance (e.g., value of TFIDF) of words. Third, the predetermined number is determined based on the layout definition file, and the determined number of dictionary information is added. Fourth, the predetermined number is determined based on the user's learning level or expertise level (larger for those in the early stage of learning, whereas smaller for those in the final stage of learning, for example), and the determined number of dictionary information is added. Fifth, a number is specified in the user profile table 300, and if the number of dictionary information to be added is less than the specified number, the conditions for selecting dictionary information is loosened, and dictionary information is reselected and added until the number of additions reaches the specified number.

[0162] Furthermore, although the embodiment has been described without a specific description of the maximum number of dictionary information to be added, for example, the user may set the maximum number of dictionary information to be added so that dictionary information within the maximum number is added.

[0163] Furthermore, although the embodiment has been described without a detailed description regarding addition of dictionary information, for example, dictionary information may be added to digital content with text decorations which highlight the dictionary information, instead of simply being added to the digital content.

[0164] Furthermore, although the fields of interest are registered in advance in the user profile table 300 in the embodiment, without limitation thereto, the fields of interest may be analyzed from the history of browsing by the user using the WWW browser so that the fields of interest according to the analysis are registered in the user profile table 300.

[0165] Furthermore, although the linguistic level and the expertise level of the user are calculated by performing standardized tests, in addition, additional information, such as how many people have the same linguistic level or the expertise level as the user, may be provided to the user with reference to the calculated linguistic level and the expertise level.

[0166] Furthermore, although the layout process in step S226 is executed by the content distribution terminal 100 in the embodiment, without limitation thereto, the layout process may be executed by the user terminal 200. This alleviates concentration of processing load on the content distribution terminal 100.

[0167] Furthermore, although the embodiment has been described in relation to an example in which the processes shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. 7 and 8 are performed by executing the control program stored in advance in the ROM 32, without limitation thereto, a program showing the procedure may be read from a stored storage medium into the RAM 34 for execution. Alternatively, the program may be downloaded from a network for execution.

[0168] The storage medium is a semiconductor storage device such as a RAM and a ROM, a magnetic storage medium such as an FD and an HD, an optical storage medium such as a CD, a CDV, an LD, and a DVD, a magneto-optical storage medium such as an MO, and includes any computer-readable storage medium regardless of the reading method such as electronic, magnetic, and optical.

[0169] Furthermore, although the embodiment has been described in relation to an example where a text information browsing aid system, a digital content creation system, a digital content distribution system, and a storage medium according to the present invention are applied to a network system implemented by the Internet 199, without limitation thereto, they may be applied to a so-called intranet in which communications are made by the same method as the Internet 199. obviously, they may be applied to an ordinary network without limitation to networks in which communications are made by the same method as the Internet 199.

[0170] Furthermore, although in this embodiment, a text information browsing aid system, a digital content creation system, a digital content distribution system, and a storage medium according to the present invention are applied to an example in which the content distribution terminal 100 distributes digital content such as news to the user terminal 200 as shown in FIG. 1, they may be applied to other cases without departing from the gist of the present invention. For example, they may be applied to a case where digital content including dictionary information is provided as a material for learning, or a case where telops in accordance with the user's knowledge level are displayed for karaoke or DVD.

[0171] In the former case, dictionary information within the user's knowledge level is not added, and only dictionary information beyond the user's knowledge level is added. Accordingly, the user can read digital content in the fields of interest and enjoy learning, and therefore can learn efficiently.

[0172] In the latter case, with regard to the DVD, the method of adding dictionary information as described above may be applied in adding subtitles or expositions. That is, subtitles or expositions according to the user's knowledge level are added based on user information. With regard to karaoke, words are displayed according to the user's karaoke level, for example, words are displayed only where the user has mistaken.

[0173] As described hereinabove, a text information browsing aid system according to the present invention advantageously provides text information more readable for the user compared with before.

[0174] Furthermore, according to a digital content creation system according to the present invention, dictionary information within the user's knowledge level is not associated while dictionary information beyond the user's knowledge level is associated to digital content, so that the user can obtain digital content including only dictionary information of a relatively high necessity. Accordingly, the user is advantageously provided with more readable digital content compared with before.

[0175] Furthermore, according to a digital content creation system according to the present invention, dictionary information which does not match the user's interest or preference is not associated while dictionary information which matches the user's interest or preference is associated to digital content, so that the user can obtain digital content including only dictionary information of a relatively high necessity. Accordingly, the user is advantageously provided with even more readable digital content.

[0176] Furthermore, according to a digital content creation system according to the present invention, dictionary information relevant to words or sentences included in digital content is associated with the digital content, so that the user can obtain digital content including relatively useful dictionary information. Accordingly, the user is advantageously provided with even more readable digital content.

[0177] Furthermore, according to a digital content creation system according to the present invention, the user can obtain digital content including relatively accurate translations. Accordingly, the user is advantageously provided with even more readable digital content.

[0178] Furthermore, according to a digital content creation system according to the present invention, user information is taken into consideration regarding the output layout, so that digital content is output in an output layout relatively desirable for the user. Accordingly, the digital content is advantageously output in an output layout viewable for the user.

[0179] Furthermore, according to a digital content creation system according to the present invention, user information is take into consideration regarding the number of associations of dictionary information. Accordingly, the number of dictionary information relatively desirable for the user is advantageously added. That is, if the user desires a smaller number of associations of dictionary information, or a larger number of associations of dictionary information, the user sets the association limit information accordingly.

[0180] Furthermore, according to a digital content distribution system according to the present invention, in addition to the advantages of a digital content creation system according to Claim 3, user information is taken into consideration regarding the output layout, so that the digital content is output in an output layout relatively desirable for the user. Accordingly, the digital content is advantageously output in a more viewable output layout for the user compared with before.

[0181] Furthermore, according to a digital content distribution system according to the present invention, only digital content relatively desirable for the user is laid out, reducing difficulty in viewing due to undesired and unnecessary digital content being included and laid out. Accordingly, the digital content is advantageously output in a more viewable output layout for the user.

[0182] Furthermore, a storage medium storing a digital content distribution program according to the present invention provides equivalent advantages as the digital content distribution system described above. 

1) an apparatus for aiding browsing of text information, the text information browsing aid apparatus comprising: user information storage means for storing user information regarding a user; and text information processing means for processing the text information based on the user information in the user information storage means, wherein, based on the user information in the user information storage means and the content of the text information associated with the user information, the text information processing means processes the text information into a form which, presumably, most suitably aids browsing of the text information by the user associated with the user information. 2) A text information browsing aid apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, based on the user information in the user information storage means and the content of the text information associated with the user information, the text information processing means associates browsing aid information which aids browsing of text information with the text information. 3) A system for creating digital content, the digital content creation system comprising: user information storage means for storing user information regarding a user; dictionary information storage means storing dictionary information; dictionary information selection means for selecting the dictionary information from the dictionary information storage means based on the user information in the user information storage means and the content of digital content associated with the user information; and dictionary information association means for associating the dictionary information selected by the dictionary information selection means with the digital content. 4) A digital content creation system according to claim 3, wherein the user information comprises interest information regarding the interest or preference of the user, and the dictionary information selection means selects dictionary information which matches the interest or preference of the user from the dictionary information storage means based on the interest information in the user information storage means. 5) A digital content creation system according to one of claims 3 and 4, wherein the dictionary information selection means selects dictionary information related to words or sentences included in the digital content from the dictionary information storage means based on the user information in the user information storage means. 6) A digital content creation system according to one of claims 3 to 5, comprising content translation means for translating the text information included in the digital content, wherein when a plurality of translations exists as candidates for the same word in the result of translation by the content translation means, the dictionary information selection means determines a presumably most suitable translation from the plurality of translations based on the content of the digital content, and selects translations as the dictionary information from the translations which have been determined. 7) A digital content creation system according to one of claims 3 to 6, comprising content layout means for laying out digital content with the dictionary information associated therewith in an output layout which is determined based on the user information in the user information storage means. 8) A digital content creation system according to one of claims 3 to 7, wherein the user information comprises association limit information regarding an upper limit number or a lower limit number for dictionary information to be associated with the digital content, and the dictionary information association means associates the dictionary information selected by the dictionary information selection means with the digital content based on the association limit information in the user information storage means. 9) A system for distributing digital content, the digital content distribution system comprising: user information storage means for storing user information regarding a user; dictionary information storage means storing dictionary information; dictionary information selection means for selecting the dictionary information from the dictionary information storage means based on the user information in the user information storage means and the content of digital content associated with the user information; dictionary information association means for associating the dictionary information selected by the dictionary information selection means with the digital content; content layout means for laying out the digital content with the dictionary information associated therewith in an output layout which is determined based on the user information in the user information storage means; and content distribution means for distributing the digital content laid out by the content layout means to the user. 10) A digital content distribution system according to claim 9, comprising: content storage means storing a plurality of digital contents; and content selection means for selecting the digital content from the content storage means based on the user information in the user information storage means; wherein the dictionary information selection means selects the dictionary information from the dictionary information storage means based on the user information in the user information storage means and the content of the digital content selected by the content selection means, and the dictionary information association means associates the dictionary information selected by the dictionary information selection means with the digital content selected by the content selection means. 11) A computer-readable storage medium storing a content distribution program for distributing digital content, the storage medium storing a program for executing a process in a computer comprising: user information storage means for storing user information regarding a user; and dictionary information storage means storing dictionary information; the process being implemented by dictionary information selection means for selecting the dictionary information from the dictionary information storage means based on the user information in the user information storage means and the content of digital content associated with the user information; dictionary information association means for associating the dictionary information selected by the dictionary information selection means with the digital content; content layout means for laying out the digital content with the dictionary information associated therewith in an output layout which is determined based on the user information in the user information storage means; and content distribution means for distributing the digital content laid out by the content layout means to the user. 